Radiant floor heating is a popular heating system that provides even and comfortable heat distribution throughout a space. One of the most important steps in installing a radiant floor heating system is to accurately calculate the square footage of the area to be heated. In this article, we will explore how to calculate square footage for radiant floor heat.
Measure the length and width of the room: The first step in calculating the square footage for radiant floor heat is to measure the length and width of the room. Use a tape measure to measure the distance from one wall to the opposite wall for both the length and width of the room. Round up to the nearest inch.
Multiply the length and width: Once you have measured the length and width of the room, multiply the two numbers together. This will give you the square footage of the room. For example, if the room is 15 feet long and 10 feet wide, the square footage is 150 square feet (15 x 10 = 150).
Consider irregularly shaped rooms: If the room is irregularly shaped, divide the room into smaller sections and measure each section separately. Calculate the square footage of each section by multiplying the length and width, then add the square footage of each section together to get the total square footage of the room.
Account for wall thickness: When calculating the square footage for radiant floor heat, it is important to account for wall thickness. Measure the thickness of the walls and subtract this from the length and width measurements. This will give you the square footage of the floor area only.
Consider any obstacles: Take into consideration any obstacles, such as cabinets or islands, that may be in the room. Subtract the square footage of any areas that will not be heated by the radiant floor system.
In conclusion, calculating the square footage for radiant floor heat requires accurate measurements and consideration of any obstacles or irregularities in the room. By accurately calculating the square footage, you can ensure that the radiant floor heating system is sized correctly and will provide efficient and effective heat distribution throughout the space.